No, this is not an "anti-PC" post--the "Short Bus" in this case is my newest project--instead of playing on the foreclosure side of the fence, why not tackle the side on which we might actually make a difference and help someone?  That, my dears, is called a "short sale"--when a homeowner knows they are in danger of not only losing their home, but also their credit, dignity, and hope of future homeownership for a very long time.

That's where we can step in--"we" being the responsible Realtors and lenders--the ones who in the past several years might have said to our clients:  "Yes, Mr. and Mrs. Seller, you can purchase that home with no money out-of-pocket and an ARM mortgage...but...should you?"

The fact is, and what so much of the popular media seems to forget, is that behind EVERY single foreclosed home is the story of someone's loss, someone's sorrow, someone's failure.  Thus, here's my attempt at a new meaning for "Short Bus":  a smaller bus than the one necessary to carry the weight of foreclosures going forward; focus on short sales not foreclosures.

Here's one--a really nice lady, referred to me by another fine area Realtor who cares--she's moved out of state to help out parents with failing health, and through a defaulted lease agreement now faces potential foreclosure.  For those renting out there right now, this situation is becoming more and more common--so be sure when you sign that lease with a private owner that you know the whole story!  Do your research and use a good Real Estate Consultant--you may be better off buying right now!

This home is in great shape (unlike many of the foreclosures out there--see the Foreclosure Bus Tour), and is not only well under market and assessed value, but could be had for less than rent!